Rohde & Schwarz has been awarded a contract by the Dutch Materiel and IT Command (COMMIT) of the Dutch Ministry of Defence to supply its turnkey integrated communications system (ICS) for the Anti-Submarine Warfare Frigates (ASWFs) of the Royal Netherlands Navy (RNLN) and Belgian Naval Component.
Under the contract, Rohde & Schwarz will deliver its NAVICS solution, which is designed to provide external and internal communications across multiple security domains. The system will feature “ground-breaking cyber security capabilities to ensure the secure exchange of sensitive information”, according to the company.
Four ASWFs have been ordered from prime contractor Damen Shipyards Group – two for each navy – although the Netherlands indicated in September 2024 that it intends to procure an additional two frigates.
“We are proud to have been selected by COMMIT to supply the ICS for the ASW Frigates of the RNLN and Belgian Navy,” Bart Walraven, managing director of Rohde & Schwarz Benelux, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “Our Multi Level Secure NAVICS solution was chosen as the best basis to fulfil the stringent security requirements. On top of [this] we incorporated numerous customer-specific requirements into the design, such as the modification of voice terminals and the integration of our communications control systems into the customer’s integrated mission management system. This tailored approach ensures seamless integration and optimal performance of the communications system.”
“Our NAVICS system has a proven track record in providing secure and reliable communications for naval vessels, and we look forward to supporting the navies of the Netherlands and Belgium in their critical missions,” Walraven added.
Thomas Weber, director of technical sales for Rohde & Schwarz, stated, “As a trusted system integrator, Rohde & Schwarz excels in delivering complex solutions that meet the highest standards of quality and reliability. Our expertise in integrating disparate systems and technologies has been consistently praised by clients, including COMMIT, who commended our professionalism and exceptional work quality during the proposal phase. By leveraging our extensive knowledge and experience in both the Netherlands and Germany, we are able to provide seamless, end-to-end solutions that cater to the unique needs of our clients in Belgium and the Netherlands. Our ability to navigate the intricacies of both markets enables us to deliver tailored solutions that drive success and foster long-term partnerships.”
